The Tilton Veterinarian Hospital in Tilton, along with its owner, Sara Laroux, D.V.M., has agreed to pay $53,500 to settle allegations of violations under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). The settlement addresses claims that the hospital failed to maintain accurate records of controlled substances, including opioids. This announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack.
The CSA is designed to prevent illegal distribution and misuse of controlled substances by requiring accurate inventorying and recordkeeping. "Particularly amid an opioid crisis, compliance with the CSA’s prescription-writing and recordkeeping requirements is essential in ensuring that opioids and other addictive drugs are not diverted and abused," stated Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. He emphasized the commitment of the U.S. Attorney's Office to enforcing this statute.
Acting DEA Special Agent in Charge Stephen Belleau from the New England Field Division commented on the responsibilities of DEA registrants: "DEA registrants are responsible for handling controlled substances responsibly and ensuring that complete and accurate records are being properly kept and accounted for in compliance with the Controlled Substance Act."
An investigation into Dr. Laroux's record-keeping began in January 2024 after reports of inaccuracies and missing controlled substances surfaced. The DEA conducted a thorough examination involving on-site inspections and audits at the hospital. Findings included numerous violations such as incomplete records, failure to conduct proper inventories, alteration of documents, forgery, significant shortages of substances received by the hospital, lack of effective controls against theft or diversion, and absence from the premises while leaving substances unsecured.
The Drug Enforcement Administration led this investigation resulting in a settlement agreement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz managed the case proceedings.